Lobbying to Increase Alzheimer Research Funding

Despite a fiercely partisan climate in Washington, the congressmen focused on their shared commitment to fight Alzheimer’s. As Ellison stated, “Alzheimer’s doesn’t care if you are a Republican or Democrat.”

We participated in the event, as members of a demographic impacted by Alzheimer’s that is often overlooked: young adults. As members of the Alzheimer’s Association Young Champions, we represent a diverse group of emerging community leaders who are dedicated to changing the face of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias by raising awareness across generations.

We have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of watching our loved ones forget how to walk, speak and swallow as a result of this terrible disease. These experiences have had a profound effect on us and sadly, our experiences are not unique. Currently more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and countless more family members and friends are suffering right alongside them as caregivers. With the largest generation in American history reaching the age at which Alzheimer’s most frequently develops, the number of people impacted by this disease will skyrocket.

Based on recently released independent study, Alzheimer’s disease is now the most expensive malady in the United States. Despite being the 6th leading cause of death in the country, it is still the only top 10 cause of death without a means of prevention, treatment, or cure.

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